Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

I Timothy 1:15-17

Last Sunday's ABF Recap:
rg

After a good hearty breakfast last week (thanks to all who provided!), we're ready to begin a new series this coming week that we're very excited about: Tending 2 Marriage. Jim Colledge will be our guest for Week 1. His topic?

The Bible places a high priority on relationships; "vertically" first and then flowing out of that "horizontal" relationships that are healthy and fulfilling. Today, our relationships, particularly marriage relationships, are being strained beyond what many are willing to endure. Understanding and responding obediently to the biblical absolutes for relationship will not only produce endurance and personal accountability, but it will also result in harmony and joy.

Samuel Kiya Lengacher

• An update on Ben, the young boy whose parents are friends of Shaun & Jessica Kiel:

  Ben's MRI went very well - the doctors said the spot on his brain was gone so it should be viral. They're going to keep a close eye on him for awhile, but he should be fine. Ben's parents, Kevin and Andrea, pass along their heartfelt thanks for all the prayers.

  
  
• "Recently New" parents: McGinleys, Stagers, Lengachers
  
  
• Expecting Parents: Christine & Jesse Dolan (twins!)
  
  
• Healthy, God-honoring marriages.
  
  
• Hannah Koons and her healing leg.
  
  

Wisdom from the Psalms

Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

A time for starting over. A new beginning. A wonderful time to take stock of life and look for ways to improve and grow. Too often, careless resolutions are made that are never kept, and so one year blends into the next with little change. The fact is, all of us have areas in our lives that could stand some improvement.

As this new year begins, let us look at our lives with honesty and candor. Let us approach change with a positive spirit, and work toward finding ways to become the people that god wants us to be.

Most importantly, ask the Lord to guide and strengthen, for it is through His power that we are able to conquer our failings and turn them into strengths.

God is able to see us both as we are and as we can be, and we need that sight in order to truly change. He will steer us away from the ungodly. He will liberate us from the way of sin. He will lead us from scorn to joy. The Lord will do all this and more because of His great and abiding love for His children. Rejoice in the love of God. he has given us a new year, and desires to give us a new life.

Enjoy your week. Send an encouraging e-mail to a friend.

RG